Per Mertesacker poised to MISS Arsenal's clash with Chelsea on Sunday

The German limped out of Arsenal's FA Cup semi final win over Reading last weekend and may not recover in time to face Jose Mourinho's champions elect.

The Daily Mirror report that Mertesacker has picked up an ankle injury and faces a race against time.

RACE AGAINST TIME: Mertesacker may not be fit to face Chelsea for Arsenal [GETTY]

Boss Arsene Wenger will hope the World Cup winner will be available for selection as he goes in search of a win that would both keep the title race alive for a little longer and sure-up their top-four hopes.

The injury to Arsenal's No.4 means that January buy Gabriel Paulista may be handed a start.